Software developer Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) has charged into the world of virtual and augmented reality with the revelation of HoloLens headsets at the preview event of Windows 10. Shares of the company surged 2.64% to $47.13 per share following the event.
HoloLens is a wireless head-mounted computer capable of running Windows 10 and has in-built processors, motion sensors and translucent lenses. The headgear projects holographic images to the real world, allowing users to play video games, create 3-D models and interact through videoconferences with colleagues. It marks the entry of the software developer into the three-dimensional holographic computing space.
The wearer can walk around and interact with virtual objects without having to tether to a computer or a phone. It doesnot even require a mouse to control or touchscreen. It enables the wearer to create and shape holograms by using hand gestures. Also, it allows the eyes and voice of the user to navigate and the communicate with the applications respectively. Microphones pick up voice commands. For instance, in an live sculpting presentation, voice commands could be used to swiftly copy a piece or combine them.
The prototype of the device was showcased as a two-piece design, including the headset and a separate box called the "Holographic Processor Unit” to be worn around the neck. It also needs to be connected to an AC power outlet. Improvements are expected in future designs.
The virtual reality and augmented reality market is still nascent. With HoloLens, Microsoft is foraying into the world of 3-D headsets, where Facebook (FB) is already present with Oculus Rift as a strong competitor. Other Silicon Valley companies in the space include Google (GOOGL) with its Glass, Sony's (SNE) Project Morpheus and Samsung’s Gear VRsuch head.
Microsoft’s Hololens will offer an augmented or "mixed" reality experience, unlike Facebook's Oculus Rift. Oculus Rift totally blocks out the outside world to fully immerse the user in another reality, while HoloLens offers the option of adding virtual images of real word objects , showing off the difference in effect. For instance, an interior designer could add or remove objects with gestures and/or voice commands in the process of creating designs.
With the headset, we expect Microsoft to gain a strong foothold in the space.
Microsoft doesn’t have a spotless launch history and many of its products have failed before they succeeded. But the market is a lot different now and the headset looks like real innovation that could help the company exploit emerging growth opportunities.
HoloLens is expected to be available around the the time Windows 10 goes on sale, which is expected before the end of the year. The company did not disclose any pricing information.
Currently, Microsoft has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
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